MSD ha raggiunto un accordo di licenza con la biotech cinese LaNova Medicines per un candidato anticorpo bispecifico, LM-299 (anti-PD-1/VEGF)

Merck entered into an exclusive global license with LaNova Medicines to develop, manufacture and commercialize LM-299 (anti-PD-1/VEGF).

LM-299 is an investigational bispecific antibody targeting both programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This innovative therapeutic approach is designed to inhibit both PD-1/PD-L1 and VEGF/VEGFR receptor signaling pathways releasing a key immune checkpoint while also inhibiting the production of new blood vessels (angiogenesis).

LM-299 has a differentiated molecular design, comprising an anti-VEGF antibody linked to two C-terminal single domain anti-PD-1 antibodies. 

Phase 1 portion of the Phase 1/2 trial for LM-299 in solid tumors is currently enrolling patients in China 

As part of the agreement, LaNova will receive an upfront payment of $588M with up to $2.7B in milestone payments associated with the technology transfer, development, regulatory approval and commercialization of LM-299 across multiple indications

The transaction is expected to close in Q4 2024 and Merck expects to record a pre-tax charge relating to the $588M payment due upon closing to be included in GAAP and non-GAAP results in the quarter that the transaction closes, and the EPS impact of such charge will be disclosed at that time